How to Get a Reservation When It’s Impossible to Get a Reservation

In the fiercely competitive realm of restaurant reservations, scoring a sought-after table is akin to mastering a strategic game. With online reservation platforms turning into battlegrounds, diners are having to get creative to outsmart the system. In this intense reservation race, a blend of good timing, personal touch, last-minute maneuvers, and occasional financial investment can be the winning combination, ensuring a satisfying dining experience.

Tactical Timing

The key to winning the reservation game often lies in knowing when to strike. A direct call to the restaurant can tell you the precise moment reservations are released. A success story involves logging into platforms like Resy within minutes of opening, bypassing bots, and securing a prime spot at a new Manhattan restaurant.

Showing up in person can also be a game-changer, especially during off-peak hours. Michael Stillman, CEO of the hospitality group Quality Branded, emphasizes the advantage of spontaneity, reserving room for those who decide to pop in without an online reservation. Early weekdays might just be the golden window to snag a coveted table without the online competition.

Last-Minute Maneuvers and Flexibility

Fluctuating plans of diners who book months in advance often lead to last-minute cancellations. Joining waitlists, checking booking sites on the desired day, and leveraging features like Resy’s “Notify” alerts can open doors to unexpected dining experiences.

A direct call or in-person chat with the host might yield favorable results, emphasizing the value of flexibility and spontaneity in navigating the reservation landscape.

Pay to Play

For those willing to invest a bit more, there’s always paying for that elusive reservation. Premium credit cards like the Platinum Amex, with its Resy Global Dining Access benefit, offer exclusive reservations and dining perks for a steep annual fee.

While paying for a reservation might seem unconventional, for some, it’s the key to turning an impossible reservation into a reality.